New Toyota for 'toasted' bushfire hero

This could be the ultimate advertisement for a new pick-up.

In a class where manufacturers trip over each other to claim status as the toughest vehicle on sale, Toyota’s Tundra has won the day in the US.

Californian nurse Allyn Pierce says his white Toyota “literally saved my life” during a desperate bid to help evacuate patients from a hospital in the town of Paradise.

More than 40 people have died in California wildfires this month.

Pierce, an avid off-road enthusiast, told the New York Times “I was like, ‘I think I’m done’… I just kept thinking ‘I’m going to die in melting plastic’” as fires raged around his pick-up truck.

But the vehicle and its occupants survived multiple trips through the flames, leaving what some observers have described as a “toasted marshmallow” of a Toyota. They’re not wrong - scorched doors have a caramelised appearance, while molten headlights, taillights, mirrors and trim elements give the impression of something held a little too close to the fire.

Toyota’s social media team said “we are humbled you’d risk your life and your Toyota Tundra to drive people to safety. Don’t worry about your truck, we’re honored to get you a new one”.

Aftermarket suppliers have also reached out to Pierce, offering to help customise his next vehicle.

Toyota Australia does not sell the Tundra, which is significantly larger than the HiLux, in local showrooms.

David McCowen is Drive’s news editor, combining automotive passion with more than a decade of reporting experience. Dave is often found at a racetrack – either in the press room, or driving his hot hatch.

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